HB520 Summary

• Amends Section 33-5-51 of the Alabama Code to extend vessel operation regulations previously applicable only to personal watercraft to all vessels on state waters.

• Requires operators and passengers of vessels or personal watercraft to wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices at all times on state waters.

• Prohibits operation of vessels or personal watercraft at greater than idle speed within 100 feet of moored boats, docks, piers, persons in water, residential shorelines, public parks, beaches, marinas, and restaurants.

• Establishes reckless operation penalties for dangerous maneuvers including weaving through congested traffic, following closely in wake of towed persons, cutting between boats and towed persons, or spraying persons or objects with vessel wake.

• Violations constitute Class B misdemeanors with minimum fines of $25, with all collected fines going to the State Water Safety Fund; takes effect on the first day of the third month following passage.